Final answer:
To add or omit information from a quotation, use brackets [ ] for additions and ellipses [... for omissions. Ensure that any alterations do not misrepresent the source's original meaning and always provide proper citations.
Step-by-step explanation:
To add or omit information from a quotation within the text, the correct approach is to use brackets [ ] around the information you add and ellipses enclosed in brackets [...] for information you omit. This ensures clarity and indicates to your reader what has been modified from the original source. Here are the guidelines to follow:
- Quote in exact words: When quoting, it is essential to use ellipses (. . .) to omit irrelevant sections of a quotation or to shorten it.
- Brackets: Use brackets [[]] to add information to a quotation to help it make sense or to clarify the context.
- Integration of Quotations: Always make sure to introduce your quotations effectively with a signal phrase so that the reader understands the source and purpose of the quotation. Place the quotation inside double quotation marks and provide appropriate citations as per the formatting style guide.
- In-text Citations: Include in-text parenthetical citations right after the quotation or paraphrased text to guide the reader to the original source information on the References or Works Cited page.
Remember, when altering a quotation, your modifications should not distort the meaning of the original text. Always credit the source and maintain academic integrity.